Use the Seal

Effective Date: August 19, 2025

Last Updated: August 19, 2025


This Certification Mark Usage Policy (“Policy”) governs the use of the Certified Traceable Shrimp™ name, seal, logo, and associated certification marks (collectively, the “Certification Marks”).


The Certification Marks are the exclusive property of Certified Traceable Shrimp Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting traceability, transparency, and sustainability in the shrimp industry.


By applying for and receiving certification, shrimpers, restaurants, and other approved partners (“Licensees”) agree to comply fully with this Policy as a condition of certification and continued licensing rights.

 

1. Ownership of the Certification Marks

 

 

  • The Certified Traceable Shrimp™ name, seal, logo, and related marks are owned exclusively by Certified Traceable Shrimp Inc. (“CTS”).

  • Licensees are granted limited, revocable, non-transferable, non-exclusive rights to use the Certification Marks only as described in this Policy.

  • Unauthorized use, reproduction, or modification of the Certification Marks is strictly prohibited.

 

 

2. Licensing Fees

Certification and use of the Certification Marks requires payment of annual licensing fees:

 

  • Shrimpers / Boat Owners: $250 per year (per vessel).

  • Restaurants / Foodservice Establishments: $750 per year (per location).

 


All fees must be paid in full for certification status to remain active. Non-payment will result in immediate suspension of Certification Mark usage rights.

 

3. Permitted Uses of the Certification Marks

Licensees may use the Certification Marks solely to identify products, menus, services, or marketing materials that meet CTS certification requirements.

 


Shrimpers (Boats)

 

 

  • On boat signage, crew uniforms, and official business communications.

  • On packaging, boxes, or labels for certified shrimp.

  • In promotional materials and websites directly tied to certified shrimp sales.

 


 

Restaurants

 

 

  • On menus, websites, and marketing materials that promote certified shrimp dishes.

  • On in-store signage (e.g., window decals, posters, table tents).

  • In advertising (print, digital, or broadcast) for certified menu items.

  • On QR codes provided by CTS linking to verification data.

 

 


4. Prohibited Uses of the Certification Marks

Licensees must not:

 

  • Use the Certification Marks in connection with non-certified shrimp or products.

  • Alter, distort, or modify the Certification Marks in any way.

  • Suggest that certification applies to an entire menu, restaurant, or operation unless all shrimp served is certified.

  • Use the Certification Marks in a way that could mislead, confuse, or imply endorsement by CTS beyond the scope of certification.

  • Allow third parties to use the Certification Marks without written approval from CTS.

 

 


5. Display Requirements

 

 

  • Certification Marks must be used exactly as provided by CTS (official logo files).

  • Marks must not be altered in shape, proportion, or color except as permitted by CTS brand guidelines.

  • When used digitally, the Certification Mark must link (when possible) to the official CTS verification page or QR code.

  • Restaurants must display the certification QR code on menus where certified shrimp is featured.

 

 


6. Monitoring & Enforcement

CTS reserves the right to:

 

  • Monitor use of the Certification Marks at any time.

  • Conduct unannounced inspections or audits of Licensees.

  • Request correction or removal of improper use.

  • Suspend or revoke certification for non-compliance.

 


Unauthorized or misleading use of the Certification Marks may result in:

 

  • Immediate termination of licensing rights.

  • Legal action for trademark infringement.

  • Public removal from the official Certified Traceable Shrimp™ directory.

 

 


7. Term & Termination

 

 

  • Certification and licensing rights are granted for one year upon approval and payment of fees.

  • Rights automatically renew upon payment of annual fees and successful completion of ongoing compliance checks.

  • CTS may terminate usage rights at any time if Licensee fails to comply with this Policy, certification standards, or applicable laws.

 

 


8. Legal Protections

 

 

  • The Certification Marks are protected under U.S. trademark law.

  • All goodwill associated with the Certification Marks inures to the benefit of CTS.

  • Licensees acknowledge CTS’s exclusive ownership and agree not to challenge the validity of the Certification Marks.

 

 


9. Amendments

CTS may amend this Policy at any time to reflect evolving certification standards, trademark protections, or enforcement needs. Updates will be communicated to all Licensees and posted on the CTS website.

 


10. Contact Information

Questions regarding Certification Mark usage should be directed to:


Certified Traceable Shrimp Inc.

8 The Green, Suite A

Dover, DE 19901

Email: legal@certifiedtraceableshrimp.com